In case you missed it, there is an amazing Harry Potter House in Southwest Austin. It’s been around for a few years now, but this year it’s getting national attention – thanks to the Kelly Clarkson Show!
What started a Halloween set-up has now transitioned into a Yule Ball Extravaganza! But do you know the whole story of how it all began? Joel Pace started the tradition in 2017 to distract and entertain his wife Amanda who was diagnosed with cancer. That year, he started building the first, much smaller, version of Diagon Alley, “and it just sort of took off as something that distracted us from all of that and made us laugh,” Joel told KXAN in 2018. “And it made her happy, made me happy.”
This year, they’ve gained a slew of new fans! That’s because Texas native Kelly Clarkson featured the house and the couple on her daytime talk show. Here’s the segment:
Light shows are currently running every evening starting at 6 p.m. and finishing at 9:15 p.m. Please note that shows will not run when it rains. New this year, they’ve added a Leaky Cauldron out front that serves sips on weekend nights. Check the official Facebook page for more details on that. You can also find out how to pre-order a Sorting Box from The Cupcake Bar to pick up on site.
The Harry Potter House is located in the Circle C neighborhood. Turn onto Bungalow from Slaughter Lane and we promise, you can’t miss it!
Viewing the house is free but while you’re there, please consider donating to one of their charities: Foster Angels of Central Texas, Variety – The Children’s Charity of Texas and ZACH Theatre.
